After bowing in greeting, Shikaku Nara quickly resumed his usual composed demeanor.
This was the expression he wore most often around outsiders. As Konoha's strategist, he had an image to maintain; he could not let his laziness and aversion to trouble show all over his face.
Still, as his gaze shifted, it settled on Hiruzen Sarutobi.
The Hokage's face was sallow, his eyes dark, and a barely restrained ferocity radiated from him. One glance was enough for Shikaku to know that he was truly furious.
Hiruzen Sarutobi held a cigarette between his fingers. When he saw Shikaku Nara enter, he suddenly coughed, then spoke in a hoarse voice. "Shikaku, you're here."
"I've run into a bit of trouble, and I could use your help."
At this point, his expression grew even darker.
"Anbu Captain Shinnosuke was confirmed dead last night. Unfortunately, we've had too little time to identify the real killer. But we can't let this drag on forever. We need to reach a conclusion as soon as possible."
Hiruzen Sarutobi stared at Shikaku Nara and slowly asked, "Do you think the Uchiha could have done it?"
By the time he voiced the question, he already had a plan in mind.
After a night of deliberation, he wanted nothing more than to break openly with Danzo and the other two, but this clearly was not the time. Since he could not turn against them just yet, he would have to find another outlet for his anger.
The Uchiha were perfect.
The two sides had long been enemies. Even if he could not bring the Uchiha down completely this time, he could at least seize the chance to make life unpleasant for them. Besides, he really was running out of patience.
*Deal with the Uchiha first, then take care of the